TiGr Lock Bike Lockshttps://tigrlock.com
Strong, Light, Titanium Bike LocksFri, 09 Dec 2016 20:03:52 +0000en-UShourly1A Brief Guide to Essential Winter Cycling Equipmenthttps://tigrlock.com/bike-safety/brief-guide-essential-winter-cycling-equipment/
Mon, 14 Nov 2016 20:17:05 +0000https://tigrlock.com/?p=2917Here it comes. It’s that time of year again where your motivation to ride has to be pushed that much further. Where the determined are separated from the recreational. Winter. Winter means rides where you can no longer feel your face and hands when you get in the door of your destination, and it means... Read More

]]>Here it comes. It’s that time of year again where your motivation to ride has to be pushed that much further. Where the determined are separated from the recreational.

Winter.

Winter means rides where you can no longer feel your face and hands when you get in the door of your destination, and it means slick terrain that occasionally makes it difficult to even stay up right. The weather certainly won’t let up for bikers, so you need to fully prepare yourself for the cold months ahead. Here is a brief guide to the essentials of cycling equipment for this winter.

Layers are a must when you’re doing any physical activity outdoors in cold weather. It ensures the regulation of your body temperature. The general rule is: If you’re comfortable when you get on, you’re going to get too hot later. Let’s go from the bottom up.

Feet: While your cleats are necessary while biking, slush and cold water can get into them and create some uncomfortable situations for your feet. There are a few items you can get to ensure that your feet, and specifically toes, stay toasty warm during your rides. Buy a neoprene overshoe that will protect your feet from wind and rain while not impeding your cleats. Make sure they’re not too loose however, as any gaps can let the rain in.

A fleece-lined thermal bootie can also provide some warmth, as well as some wool socks. Be sure to only wear one pair of socks however, despite how tempting it may be, as too many layers may make your shoes too tight and restrict circulation.

Legs: Fleece-lined bib tights are a must during the winter months. Be careful with fit however, as the chamois may move away from where it’s supposed to be due to the additional material. You can even get tights without a chamois, as they will allow you to wear shorts underneath, ensuring even more warmth and comfort. Some come with windproof panels or are waterproof, which can be a large benefit, though this can make them feel more restrictive.

Torso: This is the area of the body where you will have the most layers. We’ll start with the closest to the body and move out.

Base layer

Choose your base layer on whether or not you’ll take a break during your ride. If you’re not going to, a merino wool base is a good option as it’s warm, soft and retains heat. However, if you stop with it, the damp base can make you colder quicker. If you will frequently take breaks, get a wicking polyester base instead.

Mid-layer

Next is a mid-layer, which depending on the temperature, may end up being your outer layer. There are numerous options for this, including a mid-weight winter jersey or a softshell jacket. Both have their merits, but you should ultimately be looking for something with a high collar snug cuffs and a close fit.

Jacket

A jacket may or may not be necessary depending on the conditions. If it is particularly cold, windy, or wet, then a jacket is going to be your best friend. A lightweight waterproof shell should be used for drizzles or brief heavy showers, and are often windproof. They can also fit into small pockets as a just in case sort of apparel. However, if you experience some serious winter weather, get a heavyweight, fully waterproof jacket. Nowadays you can find some that will keep water out while letting moisture from your body escape, so you aren’t debating between boiling and being soaking wet.

Hands: There are three different kinds of gloves that you can invest in for your winter rides. Lightweight gloves will give you a little protection from the cold, but won’t help with any rain. Windproof gloves will keep you even warmer, and can help in situations of light rain. If your winter includes regular downpours however, waterproof gloves are a necessity. Make sure your gloves fit, otherwise you can cut off circulation, and ensure that the grip is good so you don’t lose any control. Be aware that gloves may inhibit your feel on the handlebar and controls, so be extra cautious when you’re getting used to riding with them.

Headwear: We’ve come to the tiptop of the body, the head. Helmets are usually fairly well ventilated, but don’t especially help with cold air. A skullcap or headband are often windproof, and are easily stowed for when you need them. Something like a peaked cotton hat can help with rain and will keep it out of your eyes. Neck warmers are also worthwhile during the winter months, as it keeps wind and water out of your jacket or jersey, and can be pulled up to keep the lower half of your face warm.

Make sure that you prepare for your bike rides this winter with layers that fit your conditions. It’s important to stay warm and dry, so you can keep on the road.

]]>The TiGr Lock Fall and Winter Guide to Safe Cyclinghttps://tigrlock.com/bike-safety/tigr-lock-fall-winter-guide-safe-cycling/
Sat, 01 Oct 2016 12:00:54 +0000https://tigrlock.com/?p=2816When the sun is shining and the weather is nice, commuting to work by bicycle sounds like a lovely idea. As the leaves begin to change colors and the temperature drops many people give it up and search for other means of transportation. We say: Stick to it! Being outside and riding your bike continues... Read More

]]>When the sun is shining and the weather is nice, commuting to work by bicycle sounds like a lovely idea. As the leaves begin to change colors and the temperature drops many people give it up and search for other means of transportation. We say: Stick to it! Being outside and riding your bike continues to have many positive benefits on your body and health no matter what the weather is like. Are you ready to face Jack Frost like a champ! Get yourself and your favorite mode of transportation prepared for the fall and winter commute (it will be over before you know it!).

Prepare Your Bike

Proper Working Headlight – Visibility is a serious issue, especially in the fall and winter when the days are much shorter. At the very minimum, you need a front flashing white light and rear flashing red light. The truth is, the more lights you have the better. Consider lights that clip into your spokes or something else so drivers from the side can also see you. Don’t forget to change the batteries on a regular basis!

Strong Lock – Cable or chain locks used in combination with a padlock often freeze over during the winter. Strong U-locks that freeze over can be a nightmare. What is the solution for a lightweight, dependable lock that won’t be bothered by the cold weather?

The titanium bodied TiGr Lock –TiGr Lock bike locks are the solution you need to keep your bike safely locked up and easily accessible when you are ready to hit the road. To lock the device you only have to press the lock in with a touch of your finger and it unlocks its unique key.

Carry-All Bag – You’ll probably be wearing layers of warm clothes and trying to transport important documents or a change of shoes for the office. Consider trading in the backpack or messenger bag for a study side mounted pannier to keep your things safe and dry.

Proper Lubrication – Making sure all of your moving parts are properly oiled up will protect them from the dirt and mud to guarantee a smooth ride. Some commuters even switch to single-gear bikes for the winter to best protect mountain bikes or road bikes with multiple gears. In any case, it’s a good idea to carry a small spray bottle of lubricant in your bag for days when everything starts to stick.

Invest in Winter Tires – Depending on the type of bike you are riding and the typical weather for your area, it might be a good idea to change out your tires for a more durable option. You can choose from thicker sidewalls to reinforced breaker belts or even wider tires. As a bike commuter, you are looking for extra comfort and grip on those bumpy, icy roads.

Prepare Your Body

Wear a Base Layer – Keeping those wheels turning and maintaining your balance takes hard work. Even when it’s cold outside you will be working up a sweat. Keep your core warm and your work clothes dry by wearing a great quality, sweat-wicking base layer shirt. High-quality merino wool shirts are often a bit pricey; expect to pay around $50 for one shirt. The good news is that you only need one because you wear it under everything else.

Keep Your Throat and Neck Warm – Neck warmers, scarves, balaclavas, whatever your choice, make sure it protects that area between your chin and the top of your jacket. The fall air might feel cool and refreshing but that winter chill can bite.

Invest in Rain Gear – If your area is prone to wet weather in the fall and winter pick up a great, lightweight rain jacket. You want one that is easily stored in your bike bag for those emergency occasions. Rain pants are also a great thing to have on hand, or be prepared on rainy days with a pair of waterproof cotton trousers designed with cyclists in mind.

Pack Gloves – Let’s be honest, trying to work with frozen fingers just isn’t a viable option. Your hands and fingers come in direct contact with the cold. For very cold locations “lobster” style gloves are highly recommended since they keep your fingers close together to generate the most warmth.

Head Gear – While wearing a helmet is your number one priority, you also need to think about how to keep your head warm. You might need to adjust your helmet, or buy a larger one for the colder seasons, to make room for a tight fitting skull cap or ear warmers underneath. The low budget option, however, is to just tape the holes on your helmet closed to trap the warm air inside.

Prepare for the Road

Ride in the Plowed Lanes – In cities that are commuter friendly, they often keep the bike lines regularly plowed after a snowfall. Stick to the bike lanes when possible. If there is no bike lane and the roads are too narrow for passing, pretend you are a full-size vehicle and take the lane. Be aware when taking the lane, it is important to use all of your hand signals and proper lights.

Take Your Time – Just like other vehicles on the road, you need to be aware of your surroundings when riding to work or school on your bike. Occasionally squeeze your brakes to keep them warm and free of debris. Look out for signs of ice and make wider turns. If the area you are going through looks too tough to manage, dismount your bike and walk for a short ways.

Take Public Transit – There will be days when the weather is just plain awful, blistering cold or pouring down rain. Many buses and trains have the ability to hold bikes somewhere in or on the vehicle. It’s OK to surrender on those horrible days and catch a ride with your bike in tow for the commute home or from your way to the office that morning. Cross your fingers and hope for better weather the following day.

For the Ladies: Wait to Put on Your Makeup – The point of wearing makeup at work is to put your best face forward. Unfortunately, while commuting on your bike you might smudge your foundation under a warm balaclava or sweat off some of your mascara. Go natural on the way to the office, sneak into the bathroom to dab off your beads of perspiration and put on your glowing look for the day.

Don’t let the colder seasons scare you away from staying active and fit. Being aware of the equipment and apparel available for cold weather cycling is half the battle. On those days when you just think it’s not worth it anymore to ride your bike every day, remember back to why you started doing it in the first place. Leave yourself encouraging notes to power through the winter. Keep a jar for the money you would have spent in parking tickets or gas wasted sitting in a traffic jam. Before you know it, the days will get longer, the frost will go away, and all of those warm-weather bicycle commuters will be impressed with your strength and perseverance.

]]>How Technology Has Transformed Bike Security and Safety in the 21st Centuryhttps://tigrlock.com/bike-safety/technology-transformed-bike-security-safety-21st-century/
Mon, 05 Sep 2016 11:00:52 +0000https://tigrlock.com/?p=2688Our society is in a constant evolution to become greener. We are frequently encouraged to recycle, to utilize reusable materials so that they don’t make their way to landfills, and use environmentally efficient transport. Some choose carpooling, others may take a bus or metro if they’re available, but many others have taken a more athletic... Read More

]]>Our society is in a constant evolution to become greener. We are frequently encouraged to recycle, to utilize reusable materials so that they don’t make their way to landfills, and use environmentally efficient transport. Some choose carpooling, others may take a bus or metro if they’re available, but many others have taken a more athletic route: biking. Biking has many positives, including no harmful emissions and the benefit of exercise when you may ordinarily not have time. However, some people shy away from biking because they feel that it’s an unsafe alternative to a car or public transport, or even that, unlike a car, someone could just pick it up and take it away. Luckily, technology companies are working to transform bike security and safety, so you have no excuse not to get out there and ride.

Security

Security is highly important when it comes to biking. The last thing you want to do is walk out of work only to find that your bike is no longer parked out front. Innovators know the problems of biking, and have sought to invent new technology to keep you, and your bike, secure.

Anti-Theft

Typically when you think of bike security, the first thing that comes to mind is either a U-lock or a large chain. While those may feel safer because they are hefty, in reality they may cause problems while you’re riding since they don’t mount to a bike very well, and the extra weight is something you always want to avoid. TiGr locks are a major breakthrough in bicycle security and theft prevention. They are simple and lightweight, and connect on the sides of your top tube so it doesn’t get in the way of your water bottle, pump, or hit your legs while pedaling. It comes in three sizes, and the two larger ones can attach to both wheels and the body of the bike without your having to detach one. It even dampens vibrations to eliminate any rattle and reduce wear.

Safety

Safety on a bike is important. Bikes don’t come with airbags like cars (yet) and some drivers just don’t pay the attention they need to when bikers are on the road. That being said, bike technology has improved over the years and offers us some new safety features that were previously unavailable. Some examples are:

Protective gear

When you think of biking when you were a kid, what often comes to mind is trying to pop a wheelie or ride with no hands, and all of that while arguing with your parents on whether or not you really needed to wear a helmet (sorry Mom). Obviously, helmets are not the most fashionable things in the world, they destroy any hairstyle you attempt, and they’re annoying to carry around with you all day. Luckily however, companies like Closca and Swedish designers Anna Haupt and Terese Alstin are here to help with that. Closca has designed a collapsible, trendy looking helmet. It collapses flat so that it can fit into your bag or other small spaces that traditional bike helmets can’t. However, even this helmet cannot save your hair. Cue Anna and Terese’s “invisible helmet.” You may feel like you’ve, all of a sudden, regressed to age six every time you click on a bike helmet. Anna and Terese are two design students that have made a helmet that looks like a fashionable winter collar. It senses the jerks that coincide with an accident and it deploys an airbag to prevent you from receiving any damage.

Lights

When we think of bike lights, we may think of one in front and one in back. Maybe all you had in your head was the image of the singular square reflector under the back of the seat. Fear not; technology is stepping up in this area as well. Revolights have designed a lighting system that can be seen from 360 degrees, and includes turn signals. A product called Magnic Light iC has developed a light using eddy current technology, meaning that the light runs without batteries or cables, so you’ll never need to worry about your lights running out during a trip or needing any replacements. Getting even more complicated, the See.Sense lighting system senses your environment, and either brightens or dims your lights accordingly. It also comes with a microcontroller just in case you want to change the level of light for any reason.

While biking is much more popular overseas than in many areas of the U.S., there is an increasing number of people deciding on the biking route for their daily commutes. For those who have been hesitant in the past, this is just some of the technology available to make your ride quick and easy, so you really have no excuse.

]]>The Urbanite’s Guide to Commuting via Bicyclehttps://tigrlock.com/bike-maintenance/urbanites-guide-commuting-via-bicycle/
Tue, 26 Jul 2016 12:48:27 +0000https://tigrlock.com/?p=2568If you’ve decided to take the plunge into commuting to school or work with your bike in order to save the environment, save some time, get back into shape or any other reason, we support you. Riding your bike every day takes a true commitment and little preparation but ask any bike commuter and he... Read More

]]>If you’ve decided to take the plunge into commuting to school or work with your bike in order to save the environment, save some time, get back into shape or any other reason, we support you. Riding your bike every day takes a true commitment and little preparation but ask any bike commuter and he or she will tell you, in the end, it is always worth it.

We’ve put together a small guide to help you get started on you daily commute.

Find a Bike

It is important to find a bike that best fits your personal preferences as well as the terrain and distance of the commute. Some of the most common types are:

Road Bicycle – This bike is pretty expensive and typically used for racing. There are variations available in the frame material or structure that make it more apt for cruising in a more relaxed position.

Classic Bicycle – This bicycle is also known as the Upright Dutch bicycle. It is very stylish and usually has a basket for carrying things. This bike is good for shorter distances or easy city riding.

Hybrid Bicycle – The Hybrid is a mixture of a mountain bike and a road bike. The bike is built for upright riding which makes longer distances more comfortable. Yet, these bikes can also handle a little off-roading if your path to work isn’t 100% paved.

Folding Bicycle – The solution to how to save time walking to and from the Metro or bus stop. The added bonus: There is no need to worry about your bike being stolen when it’s out of your site; it folds up compactly and fits right under your desk.

There are many other bikes on the market in just about every price range. You can also consider buying a bike second hand in order to save a little cash. Just make sure everything is in tip-top shape.

Get a Good Lock

No matter where you go, thievery is possible. There are many types of locks on the market that range from cheap to less cheap, but it’s important to remember you get what you pay for. Bike thieves can easily get past slim wires and faulty combination locks. When looking for a great bike locking system at a good value, we recommend the TiGr lock. It is lightweight and elegant yet tough. With two versions available, the Classic and the Mini, both are easy to store on the bike and ideal for locking up the wheels and the frame at the same time. The TiGr lock provides maximum protection and minimal effort on your part.

Be Prepared for the Road

Please remember, you are not a Superman or Wonder Woman and accidents happen: Buy a helmet. Visibility is probably just as important. Seeing and being seen when it’s light or dark out is key when you are riding a bike. Skip the battery-powered lights and go for a power generated one that lights up as you pedal. When you are riding after sunset, you can see the road ahead of you and oncoming cars know you are there. Don’t forget to pick up a bell to let pedestrians know when you are close and they should move out of your way.

You might also consider carrying a case in your bag that includes items such as:

Lube – Keep your chain functioning properly

Multi-tool – To tighten a screw or change the position of your seat

Map – Just in case your phone dies and you are lost in the middle of no man’s land

Patch Kit – To fix those flats

Small Pump – For when you are running a little low on air

Be Prepared for the Ride

There are two options when it comes to finding the right riding gear: Wear a full bike-specific lycra outfit to work every day or don’t. For those who want to keep the pack weight light, buy your clothes with your ride in mind. When shopping for pants, think stretch. You want to wear pants that allow you to move around a bit while looking good and feeling protected from the elements. Maybe even more important than your pants are your under-pants. Avoid long uncomfortable commutes with cycling specific panties; any seamless pair will do.

You will sweat. Bring a change of clothes if you sweat heavily or a small shower kit if you sweat less heavily. Be sure to include things like wet wipes for a quick “cat bath,” and maybe a small brush or comb to fix those flyaway hairs.

Know the Rules

Know the traffic rules and pay attention to where you are going. If it is your first time going to work or school on your bike, practice your route ahead of time and go when there isn’t much traffic around. Take your time and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Getting to work isn’t a race. Some of the main guidelines are:

Don’t Run Red Lights – You are responsible for following the traffic rules. Stopping on red is the law but it also keeps you from endangering yourself and other cyclists, drivers or pedestrians. You could also get a traffic ticket if you are caught by the police.

Don’t Shoal Other Riders – You may be in a hurry to get to where you are going but, most likely, so is everyone else. Shoaling is when you arrive to a red light and then skip ahead of the other cyclists to get a head start. It is dangerous and rude.

Respect the Pedestrian Areas – If you expect pedestrians to keep biking lanes and areas free when you come riding through, pay them the same respect. Don’t ride through the middle of pedestrian crosswalks or sidewalks.

Make Sure You Indicate – Your bike isn’t equipped with blinkers, like a car, to let others know where you are planning to go. Learn which hand signals are used on the road to indicate which direction you want to turn. Try to make eye contact with drivers and pedestrians when making a turn so everyone comprehends what is about to happen.

Use the Cycle Lane – When there is a bicycle specific lane available, use it.

Relax and remember that cars shouldn’t pressure you while you are riding. You have just as much right to the road as they do. It’s probably a good idea not to ride with headphones on to listen to music; you want to be alert while riding and you need your senses for that.

Get on the Move

You’ve made the decision to start riding your bike, now you just have to start doing it. Riding your bike, getting out and doing exercise fires up the endorphins in your body. By the time you get to the office maybe you’ll find you won’t even need a cup of coffee to get working hard and stay focused. One thing is for sure, by getting out of the car or train you’ll get to see, hear and experience so much more of the world around you. As you make the trek every day to and from the office, or university, or wherever, be safe, stay dry and have fun!

]]>Best Bike-Friendly Cities in North America – 2016 Editionhttps://tigrlock.com/bike-safety/best-bike-friendly-cities-north-america-2016-edition/
Sat, 18 Jun 2016 12:36:07 +0000https://tigrlock.com/?p=2472More and more people are giving up their cars and riding their bikes to and from work and for good reason! Cycling saves the expense of owning a car and provides great exercise. Increasingly, America’s largest cities are making it safer and easier for bicyclists to get around, even in some of the busiest downtown... Read More

]]>More and more people are giving up their cars and riding their bikes to and from work and for good reason! Cycling saves the expense of owning a car and provides great exercise. Increasingly, America’s largest cities are making it safer and easier for bicyclists to get around, even in some of the busiest downtown areas.

Two of the biggest names in the real estate industry, Zillow and Redfin, recently came out with their lists of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the U.S. They used different criteria.

Zillow looked at:

The percentage of people who ride their bikes to work

How long it takes commuters to bike to work

The number of miles of road that have protected bike lanes

The number of rental listings that mention bicycle storage space

Redfin looked specifically at downtown areas of cities with at least 500,000 people. Their criteria included:

The number of bike lanes

Road connectivity

The percentage of people who bike to work

The number of hills

The most bike-friendly cities may be a surprise because they are among the country’s largest. However, as traffic congestion worsens, the price of insurance rises and the number of affordable parking spots decreases, many cities are developing plans to make biking to work a safe, enjoyable alternative for their residents. More bicyclists mean fewer vehicles on the roads, better air quality, and more livable cities.

Chicago, Illinois

Redfin noted the city’s 200 miles of protected bike lanes and its thousands of bike racks. For those in the city’s many outlying suburbs to commute into downtown, there are sheltered areas to park your bike at the city’s train and bus stations, so you can shield your bike from the elements during the city’s brutal winters and commute the rest of the way into the city. Interior bike storage is also an important factor for renters and home buyers.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The City of Brotherly Love topped Redfin’s list and came in ninth on Zillow’s. Bikes are becoming an increasingly popular means of getting to work. The city has some 440 miles of bike lanes with even more being added downtown. The city is also working to make it easier for people who live in some of the city’s more underserved areas to bike into the City Center and other downtown areas. One real estate agent notes that bike storage is becoming an increasingly important amenity for those looking for a home in and around Philadelphia.

Portland, Oregon

Both companies named Portland as one of the most bike-friendly cities. It’s becoming increasingly more congested for drivers, so more people are choosing to commute to work. Thanks to a Bicycle Master Plan adopted 20 years ago, Portland has designated bike paths, bike boulevards, and plenty of bike racks. A plan in the works for 2030 includes even more improvements for bicyclists, so we expect Portland to continue to rank on best-of lists into the future.

Washington, D.C.

Anyone who’s lived and/or worked in D.C. knows the snarling traffic and exorbitant parking rates that come with owning a car in the nation’s capital. Thankfully, the city has increased the number of dedicated bike lanes and made it easier for people who work downtown to get to their jobs quickly and safely. The median bicycle commute time (according to Zillow) is just 22 minutes.

The other cities that made either the Redfin or Zillow list are:

Austin, Texas

Boston, Massachusetts

Denver, Colorado

Indianapolis, Indiana

Long Beach, California

Louisville, Kentucky

Minneapolis, Minnesota

New York, New York

San Francisco, California

San Jose, California

Seattle, Washington

Tucson, Arizona

No matter what city you live in, securing your bike is essential. Bicycle thefts are on the rise nationwide and while there are more resources available to bike owners than ever before, staying vigilant is key to securing your property. Whether you leave it at a train or bus station or at your workplace during the day, you want to know that it’s safe and will be waiting for you when you need it. The same is true if you have to secure your bike in a common area or outside while you’re at home. Titanium bike locks are popular because they are strong enough to deter even the most determined thief, but lightweight enough to carry even on long commutes – the perfect compromise for any cyclist. Find out more by visiting our store page or contacting TiGr Lock today!

]]>5 Methods of Preventing Bike Thefthttps://tigrlock.com/bike-safety/5-methods-preventing-bike-theft/
Tue, 15 Mar 2016 12:14:03 +0000https://tigrlock.com/?p=2141Bike theft is a pressing concern for cyclists, from beginning riders to professional competitors. Unfortunately, the problem doesn’t seem to be getting any better despite increased awareness, local prevention efforts, and advances in lock technology. According to FBI statistics, an estimated 1.5 million bicycles are reported stolen each year. That’s compared to only half a... Read More

]]>Bike theft is a pressing concern for cyclists, from beginning riders to professional competitors. Unfortunately, the problem doesn’t seem to be getting any better despite increased awareness, local prevention efforts, and advances in lock technology. According to FBI statistics, an estimated 1.5 million bicycles are reported stolen each year. That’s compared to only half a million automobiles stolen on an annual basis. So what can cyclists do to deter theft and protect their property?

Step 1: Register Your Bike

The first thing you should do when buying a new or used bicycle is to register it with your local police department or an independent online registration service like Bike Index, National Bike Registry or BikeRegistry.com. When buying a used bike check to see if it has been reported stolen. Police use a variety of bicycle registries to check for stolen models and illegal sales. Take another step further and take pictures of your bicycle’s features and identifiable characteristics should you need to challenge your ownership in the future.

Step 2: Don’t Lock Your Bike Outdoors for Extended Periods of Time

Leaving your bicycle locked up outside for any extended period of time drastically increases the risk of theft. Lock your bike to a bike rack in a high traffic, high visibility location whenever possible. Avoid high risk locations whenever possible. Secure both wheels.

Step 3: Don’t Leave Your Bike in the Same Place Every Time

Commuter bike lock stations are easy targets for bike thieves, especially those looking for a gem among cheaper models. If you can, avoid parking your bike among the same bikes every time and vary your lock location. This will limit the potential for your bike to be noticed and scoped out for future theft.

Step 4: Disguise Your Bike

Taking pride in your bike is important to many cyclists, but high-end, flashy bikes are easily recognizable to would-be thieves. Covering your bike’s branding with a protective fabric or vinyl layer may keep wayward eyes from taking note of your property.

Step 5: Use a Good Lock (or Locks)

It’s far too easy to break most common bike lock systems – even high-end ones. Beware of lock company ‘security ratings’ and their theft insurance guarantees; they rarely pay out. Look for locks that have been certified by a credible independent lock rating agency like ART® foundation of the Netherlands. One system that’s been proven to deter thieves and keep even the most valuable bikes safe: TiGr® Locks! Rigorously tested in the laboratory and the real-world. TiGr® Locks are the lightest weight bike locks with an ART® certification. Learn more about the capabilities of the TiGr Lock system or check out our store page for more information.

]]>6 Reasons Why It’s Better Than Ever to Own a Bikehttps://tigrlock.com/cycling/6-reasons-why-its-better-than-ever-to-own-a-bike/
Sat, 05 Mar 2016 13:51:08 +0000https://tigrlock.com/?p=2116No matter where you turn and which networks you subscribe to, you’re likely just as inundated with ill news about bike thefts, accidents, and ignorant “think pieces” about bicycle safety and regulations. But despite these negative aspects of bike ownership, we happen to think now is a better time than ever to be a cyclist.... Read More

]]>No matter where you turn and which networks you subscribe to, you’re likely just as inundated with ill news about bike thefts, accidents, and ignorant “think pieces” about bicycle safety and regulations. But despite these negative aspects of bike ownership, we happen to think now is a better time than ever to be a cyclist. Here’s why:

It’s Cool

Aside from the sweat and weird tan lines that come with daily cycling, it’s cooler than ever to be a bike nerd. After all, who else gets to exercise and then drink beer immediately following a tough ride? Tight shorts and oversized helmets aside, die-hard cyclists deserve props.

It’s Green

Arguably the best part about cycling is the fact that it’s a completely zero-emission, carbon-neutral mode of transportation. Because you’re reliant on only your body to power the machine, you can zip by gas-guzzling vehicular companions guilt-free.

It’s Fast

Speaking of zipping by – if you live in most major American cities, you know the congestion of traffic that can snarl and ruin important events, deadlines, and getting home at decent hour. Bike lanes are famously free of congestion, pile ups, and traffic jams, so cyclists deservingly have the fast lane no matter where they’re located.

It’s Affordable

As the economy continues to recover and people remain captivated by alternatives to costly vehicle upkeep and fuel costs, cyclists can save a tremendous amount of money by investing in a decent bike, helmet, and bike lock and experience zero transportation fees over the life of their commute.

It’s Safer Than Ever

With state-of-the-art helmets and safety gear and municipal bike lanes and services improving, it’s safer than ever to be a cyclist. For those concerned about thieves, there’s an amazing new tool designed for cyclists who are concerned about their bikes: TiGr Lock! Check it out here.

It’s Good for You

There never seems to be enough time to get a decent workout in with everything else on a person’s busy schedule. By combining your workouts with your daily commutes to and from work, you can save time and shed pounds at the same time. While the sweat and necessary change of clothes is an important consideration, your office or building should have shower facilities installed. If not, consider finding a gym to accommodate your needs.